I've just finished the book, found some parts totally riveting, some very sensual -- but got lost without realizing it. Missed something major, because when I finished it, I thought, "Huh?" The "Shauna" character -- why did she appear at Reza Khan's execution and why did he recognise her? Was "Mary" Shauna in disguise? He's got a terrific writing style (just had to say that).